Definition: Conscience is the part of the mind that helps distinguish right from wrong and induces guilt when one does something bad.
Example of Conscience
Examination of Conscience: Reflection on one's thoughts, words, and actions to evaluate right or wrong. Often used for preparation for confession or moral and spiritual growth.
Principles of Conscience
Universality: Everyone possesses a conscience that gives them an inner sense of right and wrong, influenced by upbringing and experiences.
Education and Formation: A conscience must be informed and developed through truth, reason, and moral guidance.
Adherence: One should act according to their well-formed conscience, even when challenging.
Peace: A good conscience leads to inner peace and integrity.
Elements of Moral Decisions
The Object (What you do): The action itself, which must be morally good or neutral.
The Intention (Why you do it): The purpose or reason for the action; a good intention cannot justify a bad action.
The Circumstances: The situation surrounding the action, including who is involved, when, where, and how, which affect its moral quality.
Natural Law
Definition: A moral law understood through reason, believed to be inherent in all people, helping distinguish right from wrong without written laws or religious rules.
Concept: Some actions are universally right or wrong, regardless of location or legal system (e.g., stealing or harming others is wrong).
Spiritual Discernment
Definition: Seeking God's guidance to make decisions that align with His will, specifically choosing morally right actions.